A man has been jailed for attempting to break into cars and steal from them following an investigation by officers of the Ribble Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Bernard Rawstron, 52, of Leach Street, Blackburn appeared before Blackburn Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to five counts of interference with a motor vehicle. He was sentenced to six months imprisonment.
On 27th of May 2026, Lancashire Police Officers were called to reports that a man – later identified as Rawstron - had been seen on doorbell camera footage at approx. 2:20 that morning approaching a vehicle and trying to open the car door without success.
After investigation, officers identified a further four victims of vehicle interference in the area.
In addition to his custodial sentence, the Ribble Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team successfully applied to the magistrates for a Criminal Behaviour Order which bans Rawstron from entering the Ribble Valley borough for three years.
Ribble Valley Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant, Duncan Hall, said:
“I welcome the sentence handed down to this offender, which includes a custodial term and the imposition of a Criminal Behaviour Order.
“The Criminal Behaviour Order will place strict restrictions on the offender’s actions and associations, helping us to prevent further offending and protect the public. Breach of this order is a criminal offence and will be dealt with robustly.
“I hope this outcome provides reassurance to our community that we are committed to tackling car theft and holding offenders to account. We will continue to work closely with partners and residents to deter crime, support victims, and keep our neighbourhoods safe.”
Two kids and adult rescued after being cut off by tide
Lancashire's biggest micro-wood is created in Colne
South Shore’s past comes alive in new community exhibition
£50,000 for Accrington park
Heartbreaking tribute paid to little girl who died in Ribble Valley collision
